Goal Setting

Setting goals for an organization provides a road map that gives a target to strive for, plans for needed change, and something to look back on and measure. Goals allow a PTA to stay focused and on track, especially during conflict or challenges.

Short-range goals: Can be accomplished now (starting today and within two weeks).Intermediate goals: Can be accomplished in the interim between short- and long-range goals.Long-range goals: Can be accomplished by the end of the term.

PlanningIt is better to set one or two goals with ten ways to accomplish each one than to set ten goals with only one or two ways to get there.

When beginning to plan, ask what the members think. Here are some methods:

Circulate a survey.

Make phone calls or personal contacts.

Use “brainstorming” techniques.

Seek out new ideas.

Officers Should Consider

Is the concern within the framework of the Purposes and basic policies of the PTA?

Does the plan address a real need in the community, or is another organization already working on the problem? Don’t re-invent the wheel. Consider joining an existing coalition (Joining, Building, and Making Coalitions Work).

Assess the costs—in terms of time investment, financial resources, PTA member ability—and determine if the goal is cost effective.

Planning Questions

What do the members need or want? (Research.)What does the unit want to accomplish? (The unit’s goal.)What will it take to achieve that goal? (Objectives.)Who will assume responsibility for what action, andHow will it be accomplished? (Plan of Action.)How will the unit know if it has succeeded? (Evaluate Success of the Plan; Evaluation form)

Potential Goals for the YearImplement a California State PTA or National PTA program or a convention resolution.
Increase unit membership.
Publicize PTA activities through newsletters, fliers, personal contacts.
Involve each school family in at least one school PTA activity during the year.
Promote cross-cultural understanding through effective programs and projects.
Set up a telephone or email communication tree to promote advocacy.
Create a website for the membership.